[The music is still playing when he responds, soft and slow; it's a much more simplified version of what he was playing earlier, but it's still recognizable.]

Even if he can't, there's no sense in asking him, now, is there?

[There's a smirk beneath his words when he says it, however; he doesn't sound displeased. Rather to the contrary, actually.]

It's good to hear from you again, my friend. I assume you're back in the city by now.